“Eid fi Eid, Tekhdar w Tzeed”: The Cultural Dialogue Forum Initiative to Promote Environmental Awareness
The Cultural Dialogue Forum of the Coptic Evangelical Organization for Social Services implemented the “Eid fi Eid, Tekhdar w Tzeed” initiative as part of the “Women Religious Leaders and Climate Change Issues” program. The program aims to empower women religious leaders to play an active role in raising awareness of climate change issues, protecting the environment, and addressing climate challenges within local communities.
The initiative targeted 50 young men and women from Minya Governorate. It was designed and implemented by female preachers and church servants from the governorate, as part of efforts to strengthen the role of youth and women religious leaders in spreading a culture of preserving environmental resources.
The initiative included an integrated program that combined scientific and religious dimensions. A simplified explanation was presented on the causes and impacts of climate change, while highlighting religious values that encourage environmental protection and the rational use of resources. Spaces for discussion and dialogue with participants were also provided.
The initiative achieved positive results that reflected the participants’ engagement with environmental issues. A number of them shared awareness messages on their personal pages. Among the most notable messages were:
“Planet in danger… We may not realize the scale of climate change until electricity is cut off, rain floods the streets, or crops are affected. The problem is big, but the solution begins with small steps from each individual. So, what can we do today?”
“The weather is no longer the same; extreme heat, sudden floods, and rising food prices. If each of us plays a simple role, such as reducing plastic use, rationalizing electricity consumption, and planting trees, we will contribute to restoring environmental balance. So, will we let the problem worsen, or will we leave a positive impact?”
“The world is beautiful and advanced, and protecting the climate is a shared responsibility that requires the rational use of natural resources and the adoption of environmentally friendly practices for a better future.”
“The climate changes us, and we change the climate. Respecting public and private property contributes to building a more beautiful and sustainable environment.”
“Climate change threatens many coastal areas and summer resorts with flooding, which calls on all of us to take action to protect our planet and the future of coming generations.”
Participants affirmed that the initiative contributed to enhancing their environmental awareness, motivating them to adopt environmentally friendly behaviors, and encouraging them to actively participate in community initiatives aimed at protecting the environment and supporting sustainable development efforts.
